Lorain · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lorain public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Martin's Run Pump Station Construction and Improvements
The city is moving forward with a major $14.5 million reconstruction of the Martin's Run Pump Station to relocate it out of a 100-year flood plain and replace aging infrastructure. Funding is provided by an Ohio EPA low-interest loan and a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers grant.
Water Department Infrastructure and Main Replacements
A brick water main failure is causing a sinkhole at 212 W. 15th St., requiring emergency repairs. The board paused the contract to ensure a durable engineering solution is planned.
Water Pollution Control Fund Deficit and Rate Adjustments
Council approved a $6 sanitary sewer rate increase, 7-4, to shrink a projected $940,000 year-end deficit in the sewer fund ahead of a $3.7 million debt payment. Residents pushed back during public comment, noting bills could top $120 a month.
Water Rate Affordability Program and Income Thresholds
Council amended the water rate affordability program and debated whether an income-based rate is legal; homestead-exemption households learned they save only about $3 a month.
Sanitary Sewer Rental Charge Increase
The city must pay processing fees for state water loans that cannot be rolled directly into the loan principal.
Water and Sewer Delinquencies and Landlord Accountability
The city is grappling with $2.5 million in utility delinquencies and plans to hire a collection agency and utilize property liens to hold absentee landlords accountable.
Utilities Department Budget Deficit and Proposed Rate Hikes
Lorain's Utilities Department is facing rising energy, personnel, and capital improvement costs, leading to discussions about potential future rate increases and uncollected delinquencies exceeding $2.5 million.